Searching For The Best Work Boot Brands
When you set off for your demanding job, a pair of floppy boots simply won’t do.
Durability, comfort, protection and a high-quality finish are a must when it comes to work-appropriate footwear.
And yet, finding the perfect pair is a task (pun intended) that no one really wants to face. Luckily, my list of the 10 best work boot brands is here to guide you along the way, with a breakdown of each company as well as tips and tricks on how to find your sole mate.
The 10 Best Work Boot Brands
#1: Blundstone
There’s never a winter when you don’t see someone wearing a pair of Blundstone boots. And why? Because of the high-quality design, the unique Chelsea boot style and the durable materials. The story began over 150 years ago with John Blundstone himself.
John believed (or knew) that the world needed a pair of durable boots and so he founded Blundstone in Hobart, Tasmania in 1870. Styles have constantly changed over the years, but the timeless and functional quality of Blundstone boots has withstood the test of time.
Today, the brand carries a collection of winter, work and fashion boots that are easy to slip on and comfortable to wear. In addition, the brand has a long list of values that relate to unique and bold designs, as well as delivering only the best to its customers.
With a quality promise that guarantees only the best quality, Blundstone work boots are priced between $200 and $300.
Highlights
- A variety of Chelsea boots in different styles for men, women and children
- Made from high quality leather
- Durable soles
- Ideal for all seasons and terrains
- Backed by 150 years of experience
- Quality promise
#2: Carhartt
Founded in 1889 by Hamilton Carhartt, the brand is best known for its carefully crafted, high-quality workwear. Originally an American company, the garments are now sold worldwide, although they are made in factories in the USA and Mexico.
Carthartt’s humble beginnings started with just two sewing machines and five employees. Today, the brand is supported by over 5500 employees worldwide. However, it has always remained true to its roots: producing clothing and supplies for workers.
The brand is still run by the Carhartt family, who have pursued the same mission since day one: ‘to serve and protect hardworking people’. The company also recognises that the people who wear its products work incredibly hard, so it offers a collection of extremely durable and high-quality garments.
With a collection of about 30 different pairs of work boots, Carhartt footwear ranges in price from $100 to $200.
Highlights
- Large selection of work and outdoor clothing for men, women and children
- Classic, rugged and well-worn look
- Durable fabrics and quality construction
- Defective items can be easily repaired, replaced or credited
- Loyalty programme available
- Free US shipping and returns
#3: Caterpillar
What do you get when you combine fashion and functionality? I’ll give you a hint: it’s named after the cutest bug in the world.
If you guessed Caterpillar, you’re right. With almost 100 years of experience in the business, this brand has earned the title of one of the most recognised workwear companies in the world.
The brand was founded in 1925 when Benjamin Holt and C.L. Best decided to merge their manufacturing companies and form the Caterpillar Tractor Co. The two joined forces and set out to ‘create machines with the power to change the world and completely reshape the construction, agricultural and mining industries’.
Today, the brand pursues the same mission with a footwear collection that allows men and women to push boundaries, be creative and always get the job done (in a safe way, of course).
When it comes to work boots, Caterpillar’s options range from $75-$200.
Highlights
- Large selection of work boots for men and women with a variety of styles, from steel-toed boots to waterproof boots
- Many different styles available
- Unisex options
- High quality designs and durable materials
- Free shipping
#4: Timberland Pro
If you work on a construction site, I bet at least a few of the people there wear Timberland Pro boots. The others are wearing options from the other 9 best work boot brands on my list.
Timberland was founded in 1952 by Nathan Swartz, who bought the Abington Shoe Company with his partner. He eventually moved to the US, purchased the brand to have it all to himself, and produced shoes with his family.
20 years later, the family invented the first Timberland shoes, a pair of waterproof work boots with the typical yellow colour. The model quickly became a bestseller for anyone looking for a high-quality shoe that was suitable for all weather conditions.
The brand has always maintained its core values, focussing on careful design and quality materials to produce only the best of the best. It continues to be a popular choice, both in the world of fashion and in the world of work.
Timberland Pro work boots range in price from $140-$340.
Highlights
- Diverse selection of classic work boots for men, women and kids, as well as a wide range of workwear and accessories
- High quality, durable leather
- Cushioned rubber soles
- Waterproof footwear
- Wide range available
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#5: Danner
The Danner story began in Portland, Oregon in 1932 when Charles Danner decided to move west to develop a new pair of boots. He believed that lumberjacks and labourers needed a quality pair of boots that were comfortable, functional and helped them get the job done.
Danner boots were designed for ‘adventure, exploration and the hard work that the men and women who wear them do day in and day out’ and are known for their durability and long-lasting quality.
Although nearly a century has passed, the brand has never strayed from its original goals and has only the best quality in mind.
Each pair is carefully crafted from the finest materials, and there is a variety of styles for both men and women. The selection ranges from workwear to fashion to hunting and military wear, meaning there’s a pair for every moment in life.
With a unique pair of laces on each boot, Danner work boot prices range from $110-$430.
Highlights
- Extensive collection of lifestyle, work, hiking, military and tactical footwear for men and women
- Hardwearing, durable materials
- Waterproof and weatherproof accessories available
- 1 year warranty on all pairs of boots
- Worldwide shipping
- Free 2-day shipping on orders over $50
#6: Dr. Martens
Dr Martens, also known as Docs or Doc Martens, was founded in 1901 by the Griggs family in Wollaston, Northamptonshire in the English Midlands. The family carefully crafted durable and robust shoes and was known throughout England.
In 1945, Dr Klaus Maertens, a German soldier, suffered a broken foot and decided to develop a shoe that was super comfortable but still offered the safety of a normal work shoe. Thus the air-cushioned sole was born.
Maertens teamed up with Dr Herbert Funk in 1947 and developed shoes made from recycled military materials. In the 1960s, the Griggs family adopted the design into their arsenal and merged the names into Dr Martens.
Today, the brand is best known for its stylish yet functional footwear, which is exactly where the brand started. They are designed in a classic combat style, made from hardwearing leather in many different styles and with a thick, chunky sole for comfort and protection.
There is also a range of different qualities for different work environments.
The shoes are made in the UK, China and Taiwan, but are also available worldwide. Prices for Dr Martens work boots and shoes range from $80 to $170.
Highlights
- A variety of shoes in different styles as well as bags and accessories
- Made from durable and robust leather
- Committed to sustainable production
- Vegan options available
- Free standard shipping on all orders over $50
- Financing options available
#7: Irish Setter
Irish Setter, known for its robust models, originally emerged from Red Wing, a brand dedicated to ‘makinga lasting difference to people’s lives’. In 1950, Red Wing launched a new boot with Red Russet leather, inspiring the Irish Setter brand.
Today, the collection has grown beyond a single pair to include a variety of styles. Each pair is made in the USA from premium leather, maintaining the quality and meticulous craftsmanship from the start.
With a collection of boots for work, hunting and casual wear, Irish Setter is ready for anything. The styles are designed for hard work, but also have a sleek, rugged look that can withstand a variety of terrains and weather conditions.
Born out of a need for high-quality, durable boots and a focus on craftsmanship, Irish Setter work boots retail for between $120 and $250.
Highlights
- Wide range of work, hunting and casual boots designed to be comfortable and reliable
- Ideal for a variety of different weather conditions
- Rugged and unique styles
- Made from high quality leather
- Made in the USA
- 6-month warranty
- Free shipping on orders over $75
- Free returns
#8: Wolverine
Wolverine products can look back on 135 years of experience and have remained on the market through constant innovation and design. G.A. Krause founded the company in 1883 as a tannery with just a few employees, focussing on high-quality boots and gloves.
The brand quickly became synonymous with comfort and robustness, two things that are ideal for the working class. The brand’s original 1000-mile boot became the most popular pair, designed to walk 1000 miles with unrivalled durability and a tough leather upper.
Today, each boot is carefully constructed with three aspects in mind: Comfort, practicality and endurance. This means they are built to last and continue to inspire endurance and vigour on the job and beyond.
Still, Wolverine offers some pretty affordable pairs and options for everyone, starting at $35 and ranging up to $425.
Highlights
- Huge selection of work, lifestyle and outdoor boots for men and women, as well as high-quality outerwear
- Collaboration with Metallica
- Blend of fashionable and functional
- Ideal for all weather conditions
- With waterproof Gore-Tex lining and treated leather
- Boot Finder’ makes it easy to find the right pair
#9: Golden Fox
Golden Fox, an American classic, was founded in 1970 with the goal of providing quality protective footwear to local businesses.
It only makes sense that footwear designed for the working class would be designed and made by hard-working people, and that’s exactly what sets Golden Fox apart.
While the origins of the brand itself are quite mysterious, the truth about the pieces is not. Each and every boot is handcrafted in Ontario, California and carefully designed to meet the needs of a variety of professions.
Today, the brand continues to focus on timeless and versatile design, promising nothing but the highest quality. They utilise Goodyear welt construction, which means that the soles are extremely durable, waterproof and resoleable.
The brand’s collection consists of a variety of different shoes, from casual and hiking boots to work shoes, moc-toes, chukkas, rubber boots and boondockers.
The focus is on the manufacture of footwear for industrial, engineering and construction workers with composite soles that are resistant to a wide range of materials.
The company’s mission is to ‘deliver exceptional work boots that stand the test of time’ and uses premium leathers, combining traditional techniques with modern standards to create something of great, long-lasting beauty.
As times change, so do Golden Fox boots, coming up with constant innovation to provide workers with the footwear they need to stay safe. Prices range from $40-$200.
Highlights
- Wide selection of mocha toe, chukka, work and casual boots, as well as boot accessories and care products
- Timeless styles
- Goodyear welt construction
- Durable leather uppers with steel toe caps for protection
- Worldwide shipping
- Safety Guarantee
- Free shipping on orders over $100
#10: Harley Davidson
Harley Davidson is best known for its motorbike clothing, but also has a collection of stylish, high-quality leather work boots. The brand was founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, when four young men designed a unique and innovative motorbike.
Today, the brand continues to focus on developing timeless and innovative models that define motorbike culture and lifestyle, creating ‘freedom for the soul’ as they ‘represent the timeless quest for adventure’.
With this in mind, the company offers a range of different products, from motorbikes to all the accessories and parts that can be combined with them.
Of course, the brand also offers a range of shoes that are ideal for wearing on a motorbike, but also for various professions so that customers can ride their bikes to work.
The models are designed to withstand heavy use without sacrificing comfort or style, as they protect the feet while offering a breathable lining. The leather and canvas materials ensure lasting quality, while the selection covers a variety of different needs.
Prices for Harley Davidson work boots range from $50 to $300.
How to Shop for the Best Work Boot
Now that I’ve outlined the 10 best brands of work boots, you may still be torn as to which pair is right for you. There are some key factors you should consider to make sure you start things off on the right foot.
Below, I’ll outline some details to consider when shopping to make sure the boots you buy will do the job, suit your style and last a long time.
Brand
It’s always important to choose a brand that has a strong customer base while having a clear sense of ethics and transparency in terms of processes and manufacturing.
Luckily, all of the best shoe brands on my list vouch for both the quality of the products and the processes behind them.
Style
There is a wide range of work boots to choose from, from traditional styles to business boots to comfortable and casual styles. There are moc toe, cap toe, hiker and logger work boots, each suitable for different professions and personal preferences.
In most cases, you can find something that is the best of both worlds and suits both your own aesthetic and your work. Below, I’ll go into how the different styles can also affect purpose.
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Purpose
Depending on your job, you will need different models or details in work boots. For example, a weatherproof boot is ideal if you work outdoors in an unpredictable climate, while steel toe caps are required for machinery and equipment as well as a range of other activities.
Essentially, fit, style and features play a role in the purpose for which you need the boot. Therefore, it’s important to keep the purpose in mind when choosing my list of the best work boot brands.
Fit
The fit of the boot mostly depends on preference or necessity. However, it’s important to find a boot that fits you properly to ensure the right level of support and comfort.
If you work outdoors a lot, you may prefer a roomier pair that you can pull socks over. Essentially, they should fit just right without pinching. With that in mind, I’ll give you a few more details on how your work shoes should fit soon!
Materials
The best brands of work boots always use high-quality, highly durable materials. Steel is a common material for toe protection, while rubber is a durable sole option with high traction. Leather is an excellent choice for the upper, as it looks better and better with wear and tear, while offering a high level of comfort.
Care
While the best work boot brands offer choices that are built to last, maintenance is definitely an important part of keeping your boots in good condition for longer. Here are a few tips on how to keep your boots in pristine condition:
- Regular cleaning with a water-based detergent and a brush with soft nylon bristles
- Apply a waterproofing spray or impregnation.
- Wipe off dirt and debris as often as possible.
- Carefully remove the shoes and store them in a dry place when not in use.
- After cleaning, apply leather care product (if the boots are made of leather)
Price
Work boots are usually an investment as they are carefully crafted to protect you and your feet in demanding environments, whether it’s bad weather, using heavy machinery or working on a construction site.
That’s why it’s important that you choose a brand in your price range – luckily, there’s plenty of choice in my list of the best work boot brands, so there’s something for everyone.
FAQs
What’s the best work shoe for standing on concrete all day?
If you don’t already know, standing on hard surfaces for hours on end is neither the best thing for your feet nor particularly comfortable. That’s why so many chefs and cooks opt for a cushioned kitchen mat.
But what if I told you that there is a shoe with a sole that has the same function?
A moderate or raised heel, plenty of cushioning and sufficient support are the best way to avoid aching feet. Shock-absorbing soles also protect your feet from the hard ground.
How long do work shoes need to be broken in?
Depending on the fit and stiffness of the work boot, it may take a little longer to break them in. However, it can take between a week and a month to break in a brand new pair. Here’s how you can get the process started:
- Put on a pair of thick socks and stick plasters or soft pads on the areas where the shoes rub.
- Wear the shoes indoors for 5-10 minutes at a time for about a week
- Start by wearing the shoes outside the house for 1-2 hours at a time and increase the time the more often you wear them.
Final Thoughts
When it comes down to it, a quality pair of boots is a must to keep you safe, comfortable and ready for action. They do need looking after, but it’s worth the investment to maintain them and ensure you get the best out of each pair.
I hope my list of the 10 best work boot brands has helped narrow down your choices and find the right pair of footwear for your needs, with a few things to consider – from styles to materials to fit.
How we selected the best work boot brands
Before deciding on a brand, we scour the internet and all the major e-tailers to make sure we know all the available options on the market. We pay attention to customer reviews, star ratings, brand ethos, process, materials, accessibility and more. We weigh the pros and cons so you don’t have to, and help you make an informed buying decision.